Why visit United Arab Emirates?
The United Arab Emirates is where futuristic skylines meet sweeping desert landscapes and a long coastline. You can explore glittering cities, coastal resorts, and historic neighbourhoods in one trip.
What to expect
Expect bold architecture, modern attractions, and carefully preserved heritage districts. Dubai offers towering landmarks and beaches, while Abu Dhabi blends cultural institutions with waterfront promenades and desert escapes.
Plan your trip
You can use the UAE as both a standalone holiday and a springboard to the wider Middle East. With well-connected airports and efficient roads, it is easy to combine several emirates in one itinerary.
Discover United Arab Emirates
Discover United Arab Emirates
Top experiences in United Arab Emirates
Take in the views from Dubai's iconic skyline
Ride up one of Dubai's landmark towers for sweeping views over the city, the coastline, and the desert beyond.
Stroll along Dubai Marina and The Beach
Walk the waterfront promenades, relax by the sea, and pause at cafés as boats glide through Dubai Marina.
Explore historic creekside districts
Wander through traditional quarters by Dubai Creek, where restored wind-tower houses and narrow lanes reveal an older side of the city.
Join a desert safari at sunset
Head into the dunes outside the city for golden-hour views, gentle dune drives, and starry desert skies.
Unwind at beachfront resorts
Spend unhurried days by the Gulf, enjoying soft sand, calm water, and the convenience of urban amenities close by.
Visit world-class museums and cultural centres
Discover regional art, history, and architecture at major cultural institutions spread across the emirates.
Cruise the waterfront at night
Take an evening boat trip to see illuminated landmarks and reflections dancing across the water.
Experience United Arab Emirates's way of life
Getting around
The UAE has well-maintained highways, making travel between Dubai and other emirates straightforward by car, taxi, or organised transfer. Within Dubai you can combine metro, tram, taxis, and ride-hailing services for easy movement between neighbourhoods.
Local life & culture
Daily life in the UAE moves between air-conditioned malls, waterfront promenades, and relaxed evenings in cafés. You will notice a blend of long-time residents and international communities, with cultural spaces and public events reflecting both regional heritage and global influences.
Where to unwind
You can slow down on city beaches, landscaped waterfronts, and carefully designed parks. For a change of pace, head into the desert for quiet dunes and wide horizons, or choose resorts that focus on spa experiences and calm, shaded courtyards.
A taste of United Arab Emirates
National dishes & specialties
Across the UAE you will find rice and meat dishes, fragrant spiced stews, and grilled specialities that reflect Gulf traditions. Coastal cities add fresh seafood, while cafés offer sweet treats and aromatic hot drinks.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Dubai's neighbourhoods are dotted with small eateries, contemporary restaurants, and global chains, so you can eat well at any time of day. Each district has its own feel, from relaxed beachfront venues to sleek city-centre dining rooms.
Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose restaurants in high-rise towers, beachfront hotels, or overlooking marinas and fountains. Many venues pair thoughtful menus with city or sea views, turning dinner into a full evening out.
Retail therapy in United Arab Emirates
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Dubai is known for vast malls that combine international brands, local designers, dining, and entertainment under one roof. These spaces are popular not just for shopping, but also as comfortable, cool places to spend time.
Markets & local crafts
Alongside the malls, you can browse traditional-style markets and boutique areas for textiles, perfumes, and decorative items. Historic districts and older commercial streets often reveal smaller shops specialising in regional products.
Evening retail scene
As the weather cools in the evening, promenades and outdoor shopping streets come alive with light. You can enjoy later opening hours in many malls, creating an unhurried atmosphere for browsing after dinner.
Best time to visit United Arab Emirates
November to March (peak season): These months are generally warm and comfortable, with daytime temperatures around 20–28 °C (68–82 °F), ideal for outdoor sightseeing and time on the coast.
April to May, October (shoulder season): Temperatures rise to roughly 28–35 °C (82–95 °F), with hotter afternoons but pleasant mornings and evenings, especially by the sea.
June to September (low season): This is the hottest period, with daytime temperatures often 35–45 °C (95–113 °F) and high humidity, so indoor attractions and air-conditioned spaces are most enjoyable.